The Jefferson County office of Emergency Management Director Donna Haugom has announced that September is National Preparedness Month.

According to information released by the office, the month offers “a great time to reflect on the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. National Preparedness Month, recognized annually, serves as a reminder that disasters and emergencies can strike at any moment. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a public health crisis, or any unforeseen event, being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities.”

In 2023, the theme of National Preparedness Month is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” and focuses upon preparing older adults for disasters, and specifically, according to the office’s release, “older adults from communities that are disproportionally impacted by the all-hazard events, which continue to threaten the nation.”

For more information and preparedness resources during National Preparedness Month visit: National Preparedness Month | Ready.gov, the release advises.

Additionally, the release notes that by the year 2035, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that there will be more Americans over the age of 65 than under the age of 18.

“Over the next decade, it is imperative that the growing older adult population become more aware of their risks and better prepare for them. Similarly, we know older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas,” the release states.

As a matter of preparedness, especially for older adults and their caregivers, the release offers the following advice:

• Assess your needs: As stated in the release, “if you have medications that need refrigeration, rely on mobility or assistive devices or have a pet you’ll need to understand how these variables will factor into what you’ll need to stay safe in a disaster or emergency.

• Make a plan: According to the release,”once you assess your needs, you can tailor your plans to make sure your needs are met. This can include building a kit that includes extra medication, having a way to store medications in an emergency and planning for your pets or service animals.

• Engage your support network: The release notes that “reaching out to family, friends and neighbors can help you build a support network that can support you before, during and after a disaster or emergency.” 

The release further advises residents to make sure that someone in their personal support network has an extra key to their home and knows where they keep emergency supplies.

The release advises all residents to practice their plan with those who have agreed to be part of their personal support network.

Those looking for resources to help support older community members are encouraged to visit: Ready.gov/older adults .

A story including locations where older adults can find meals provided through the Jefferson County Aging and Disability Resource Center and upcoming menus, and Walworth County, is here: A story including locations where older adults can find meals provided through the Jefferson County Aging and Disability Resource Center and upcoming menus is here: https://whitewaterwise.com/jefferson-county-adrc-announces-locations-of-countywide-senior-meals-menus-walworth-county-information-included/.